A compilation of timely information regarding matters of interest to homeowners, buyers and sellers of real estate in Dobbs Ferry, the Rivertowns and the Westchester County, NY area in general.
Ranging in price from $389,000 up to $12,995,000, they represent the broad spectrum of available properties in Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown.. One of them is sure to please. Browse thru some of the listings below or contact me for more information or to schedule a showing.
“People often assume that getting a gorgeous kitchen like the ones they see in design magazines would require draining their bank account. And often, they’re right: Building a custom kitchen with upscale materials and finishes can easily run into six figures.
What they might not realize is that there are cost-saving alternatives that can deliver a high-end look for a fraction of the price. One of the most popular, employed by a number of architects and designers, is building a kitchen with Ikea cabinets and then covering those cabinets with custom doors, drawer fronts and panels from companies likeReform,SemihandmadeandKokeena.”
“Ikea makes a great box,” said John McDonald, the founder and chief executive of Semihandmade, a company based in Monrovia, Calif. And inside its Sektion cabinets, he added, Ikea “uses the best hardware you can get…..”
Contact me for more information about the expected Rate Of Return on your investment, at resale, for typical upgrades to your home, including the all important kitchen and bath.
Posted on December 6, 2019 2:51 pm by Scott Rosasco
The Rivertowns Holiday Trolley
Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty in Dobbs Ferry is sponsoring the Rivertowns Holiday Trolley, on Saturday, December 7. The office will be giving out candy canes and free, holiday basket raffle tickets. Have a photo taken with Santa, next door at the firehouse and watch the holiday tree lighting. Nothing like that small town appeal with big time charm at BHG Rand Realty, 108 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry NY.
See the link for full details and the trolley schedule, with participating Rivertowns shops and restaurants: Rivertowns Trolley
Only 4 brand new 1 bedroom units are still available, in this iconic, pre-War landmark building, at the most convenient location in Dobbs Ferry. Each residence boasts stainless appliances; gas range, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, granite counter tops and new bathrooms. Coupled with all the charm of yesteryear including terrazzo hallways, gleaming, original, ribbon inlaid hardwood floors and 9′ ceilings. Great security with new key fob entry and video. All new electric in each unit and a new laundry room. 4 blocks to Metro North commuter train. Across the street from Stop and Shop and convenient to all the chic restaurants and shopping in the village. Future plans include a gym and roof deck with river views. Free overnight parking within two blocks. Pets are allowed. Priced at $1999 month. 381 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry NY
2/5/2020 Call For More Information At: 914-960-3837 cell
Housing inventory is up in Dobbs Ferry. With the average number of homes listed for sale in Dobbs Ferry in the first quarter of 2018 set at 28, there were nearly double the number of homes listed for sale in the second quarter, with 52 houses. Allowing for homes that have since sold quickly, those off the market or those currently under contract and waiting to close, there are currently 42 homes for sale in Dobbs Ferry. They range from a “Handyman’s Special” listed for $374,900 on the low end and range up to a$3,495,000 homeon the high end.
Just listed in the Westchester County river village of Dobbs Ferry, is this historic 1927 Sears Kit House, gracefully updated for today’s modern lifestyle.
One of three, originally identical, sister houses on the street and built at a time when solid construction was de-rigeur, each home has been renovated in their own unique way. It has a lot to offer at this price point with a large Living Room, expansive Formal Dining Room, spacious Kitchen with the original 1927 subway tile and a Sun Porch or Den on the first floor. You will love the upstairs master bedroom with its huge double closet. There are two additional bedrooms on this level, as well as a renovated and full, hall bath. A tiered back yard has lots of privacy and boasts a patio as well as an outdoor fireplace. The basement is full and unfinished with a laundry room and 1 car garage. Only 3 blocks to the famed 76 acre Juhring Nature Preserve, 2 blocks to shopping and transportation and 10 minutes from the Metro North train to Manhattan. Enjoy Dobbs Ferry’s new waterfront park, restaurants and boutiques. Current taxes are under $11,000. Offered at $549,900.
The property website with more information on the listing, the village of Dobbs Ferry, schools, mortgage and Sears Kit Houses is at: www.21Highland.com
Contact Scott Rosasco today to see this home or any other property in the Rivertowns or Westchester County.
Posted on October 10, 2017 6:03 am by Scott Rosasco
2017 Dobbs Ferry Festa
Once again, this Saturday October 14, between 1 PM and 8 PM the “Ferry Festa” will be celebrated on Main Street and Cedar Street in the Dobbs Ferry village downtown. Featuring a wide variety of village businesses, outside vendors, food and music it looks to be a great time for the whole family. Stop by the Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty tent in front of our office at 108 Main Street, next to village hall. We will be sporting a haunted house theme with a raffle and crafts for kids. There will also be information available about real estate for sale and rent in Dobbs Ferry and the Rivertowns.
Posted on October 6, 2016 6:04 am by Scott Rosasco
363 Ashford Avenue , Dobbs Ferry
Uniquely situated and conveniently located 2 blocks from major highways, this single family home is in Dobbs Ferry’s new DT(Downtown Transition) zone. In addition to its current residential use, it can also be used with a commercial use on the first floor with residential above. Other possibilities include office spaces such as physicians or attorneys, a retail storefront, or other commercial uses. There are significant parking possibilities with a driveway and lot in the rear.
A truly unique opportunity at this price point and with taxes of less than $15,000. Call me for more information. 914-960-3837.
Posted on September 9, 2016 6:02 am by Scott Rosasco
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
This Contemporary/Colonial Dobbs Ferry home is on a cul de sac with tree top views! Surrounded by greenery on the back deck, you will think you are at a country home far away from it all, when in fact, you are just a stone’s throw from all the conveniences of Dobbs Ferry. An open, light and airy home with plenty of room for everyone. The deck runs the width of the house, with access from both the family room, which has a fireplace, the dining room and the kitchen. The eat-in-kitchen has a pantry, large commercial range with 6 burners over an oven as well as a large griddle over a 2nd oven, granite counters, stainless steel fridge and dishwasher.
The master bedroom suite on the 2nd floor has a fireplace, 2 walk-in closets, and a large bath. Three additional bedrooms and a full bath with double sink vanity and laundry are also on this floor. The lower level, which is above grade in the back, has a bedroom, full bath, family room and storage. Freshly painted. Ardsley schools. $875,000
Directions: Ashford Avenue to Briary Road. Up approximately 5 blocks to Heatherway to right at stop sign on Summit Terrace to end of road.
Seasonal Hudson River Views at this 2 Bedroom with Den at Village Green
Rarely available with incredible privacy in this complex is an oversized, first floor, end unit with a garage in a B building, with no neighbors in the side and rear yards. 1200 sq.ft. with 2 bedrooms plus a den, commonly used as either a 3rd bedroom or formal dining room. The master bedroom has a 1/2 bath, easily converted to a full. Updated kitchen and baths. Hardwood floors thruought. A 1 car garage, which typically sells for an additional $15,000, is included with this unit and offers extra storage possibilites as well. Huge, private 20′ x 30′ deck with panoramic, seasonal Hudson River views and breezes is perfect for outdoor entertaining. The downtown location is 2 blocks from the Metro North train to NYC, with a 35 minute commute, as well schools, shopping and village restaurants. Amenities include a clubhouse and inground pool. A great way to get into Dobbs Ferry and its award winning school system, for considerably less money than a house. $425,000. Call me at 914-960-3837 for a private showing.
Public Open House: Sunday June 12 From 1 PM – 3 PM
Directions: Broadway/Route9 to Cedar Street, 2 blocks down to #100; Village Green.
“Once a downscale, sleepy Rivertown squeezed between Hastings-on-Hudson and Irvington, Dobbs Ferry has taken a giant leap to the forefront with a wave of commercial, residential, and lifestyle improvements. The biggest news in the village is the expected completion this fall of Rivertowns Square, a $150 million mixed-use development next to the Saw Mill at Lawrence Street. The project will turn an abandoned research laboratory into a….”
This custom designed contemporary residence will captivate you with its artistic flair and character. Soaring ceilings with great light and spaces embody this 3,800 square foot home. The living room boasts floor to ceiling French doors leading to a wraparound balcony, a wood burning fireplace and a skylight. The newly renovated gourmet eat-in-kitchen offers a breakfast island and a Juliette balcony,overlooking the entry foyer. The main level also features a spacious family room.
Upstairs, the master suite includes a bath and a private deck with quiet woodland views. There are also four additional family sized bedrooms and four additional baths.
Located directly adjacent to the renown 74 acre Juhring Nature Preserve with numerous marked trails for passive outdoor recreation. Easy access to highways, Metro North train and shopping. 2 car garage. Ardsley school district. $849,000
OPEN HOUSE WITH REFRESHMENTS: Sunday April 3; 1 PM – 3 PM
Nestled on a quiet driveway, the unassuming exterior of this 4500 sq.ft. Contemporary Colonial belies the unparalleled space and light within, offering Hudson River and Tappan Zee views. The main level features a two story entry foyer and living room with skylights, as well as an expansive dining room and breathtaking river views. The family room boasts a marble surround fireplace and adjoins the huge eat-in-kitchen with a door out to the large wood deck. Upstairs you will find an extravagant master suite with full bath, whirlpool tub and his and hers walk-in closets with a private balcony offering sweeping Hudson River and valley views. There are also 3 large, family bedrooms and a hall bath. Gleaming oak floors complement these spaces. The walk-out lower lever features an entertainment space with wet bar, full bath, bedroom and a bonus room adjacent to the patio entrance to the huge, flat, rear yard. This residence is ideally located near schools, parks, shopping, dining and transportation and only 35 minutes to Grand Central. Call me for more information: 914-960-3837.
Posted on November 3, 2015 6:05 am by Scott Rosasco
Hastings-on-Hudson 2015 3rd Quarter Market Report
The volume of homes sold in the Westchester County NY Rivertowns area is up as high as 110% for the third quarter of 2015 vs. the third quarter of 2014. The village with the highest sales volume was the village of Hastings-on-Hudson, where sales rose from 20 houses in the third quarter of 2014, to 42 houses in 2015. Sales in the village of Dobbs Ferry were up 33% and Tarrytown 34%, yet the village of Irvington actually showed a decrease in the number of homes sold. Overall, the Westchester County NY median selling price was also up 2.4%.
My complete Better Homes and Gardens Rand Westchester Real Estate Market Report can be found here:
Posted on September 15, 2015 6:16 am by Scott Rosasco
The Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty; Fall Events Guide is out. With information on a multitude of events in the Hudson Valley it seems there is something to do for everyone this season.
In particular, don’t miss the Dobbs Ferry “Festa” on Saturday September 26th and stop by our office at 108 Main Street. We will be raffling off a number of items including an Apple watch and a Basket of Cheer. It’s also a great opportunity to experience what makes the Rivertowns such a special place to live.
Also, in the near future, is the always well attended Dobbs Ferry Halloween Parade. Look for an update on this in October.
The full Hudson Valley Events Guide can be found here:
Located in one of the most convenient spots in the charming river town of Dobbs Ferry NY, this 1,300 sq.ft residence is sure to please. With 3 bedrooms and two full baths, it has enough space for everyone to take advantage of the award winning Dobbs Ferry school system. Gleaming hardwood floors and an open layout with three exposures makes this corner unit a breezy and airy retreat year round. The master bedroom overlooks the woods and bucolic Wickers Creek, offering privacy and serenity. A covered balcony off the living room creates pleasurable alfresco dining. Literally across the street from some of this river villages most talked about restaurants, including Sushi Mikes, Sams, Harpers and The Cookery. A five minute walk to the Metro North train station and a quick 35 minute commute to Manhattan makes this residence hard to resist. Open House: Sunday May 10, from 12 PM – 2 PM. Or call me for a private showing appointment. 914-960-3837 cell.
Following in its northern neighbor Irvington’s footsteps with their recently acquired knowledge that even national and state historic landmark status designations cannot prevent demolitions, a group of Dobbs Ferry homeowners and other concerned citizens have proposed the first historic district in the village. Centered on one of Dobbs Ferry’s prettiest streets, Belden Avenue, the historic district designation would establish what is and what is not acceptable for home renovations and/or replacements to maintain the historic nature and character of the street.
According to Dobbs Ferry village code, the village board may designate landmarks and historic districts as “a contiguous area containing a number of sites, buildings, structures or features having a special character and historical, architectural or aesthetic interest or value, and constituting a distinct section of the Village“
A similar, yet unsuccessful, attempt appears to have been made over 30 years ago, on an equally historic and pretty Dobbs Ferry street, Clinton Avenue. Hopefully, with proper planning and research, this new attempt will be more successful and stand as a model for future districts in the village.
An Ad Hoc Committee of residents, homeowners, architects, attorneys and village officials has been established to research and report back to the village board the necessary steps, benefits and ramifications of creating one or more historic districts.
Posted on December 17, 2014 6:12 am by Scott Rosasco
Heading into the New Year of 2015 there is a combined total of 125 houses for sale in all of the NY Metro area Rivertowns, from Hastings-on-Hudson to the south, to as far north as Sleepy Hollow. Ranging in price from $4,750,000 for a home in Irvington to a home in Dobbs Ferry for only $299,000 they represent a broad gamut of opportunities for living in this bucolic area. Here are just two of them, at both ends of the spectrum, linked to their full listings:
Sprawling New Construction in Dobbs Ferry $1,399,000
Classic Eyebrow Colonial Cottage in Dobbs Ferry $329,000
To View the Full List of Homes For Sale, Click on the Link Below.
Posted on September 23, 2014 6:00 am by Scott Rosasco
A Classic Eyebrow Colonial Cottage
Spacious, shady and very private backyard
A bargain at only $329,000 with taxes of under $10,000, this classic eyebrow colonial cottage is located on a sun dappled, leafy Dobbs Ferry street. It is just minutes to village park, pool, shopping and schools. Featuring two bedrooms with a full bath, spacious living room. eat-in-kitchen and a 1 car garage, as well as an unfinished basement. The large flat yard with a concrete patio offers great privacy and is perfect for summer BBQ’s. This home will need some renovation, yet has great expansion potential and low taxes. Call me at 914-960-3837 for a private showing.
Few things are more exciting than building a new home or watching your old one change before your eyes. And the person who will affect the outcome of your project the most is usually the architect. His or her plan will dictate the ultimate appearance and function of the home, as well as the financial costs and emotional toll involved in its construction.
The client-architect relationship is very personal, involving discussions of your habits, your hobbies, your tastes, and even your relationships. So you want the choice to be right. The suggestions that follow will help you analyze the personality, design strategy and communication skills of your candidates. Ultimately, you want to find the architect who’s right for your situation, for your budget and for you.
See the full article at: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22038031/w/sid=1/list/How-to-Hire-the-Right-Architect
Posted on October 30, 2013 6:18 am by Scott Rosasco
Another Successful Halloween at the Rand Realty office. 2013
Dobbs Ferry celebrates Halloween in its usual big way with the annual Halloween Parade down Cedar and Main streets on Thursday, October 31. Generally starting in the vicinity of 4PM there are always a few younger goblins, who perhaps have earlier bedtimes or homework, showing up here at Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty at 3PM. We are usually overwhelmed by the number of spookily dressed trick or treaters and are continually amazed at their imaginative costumes. The homemade costumes are really the best. This year we will have our usual scary window costumes, flying bats on our awnings and even the occasionally more frighteningly dressed Realtor, handing out candy. Come early while we still have treats. The village of Dobbs Ferry will be providing entertainment by Joe Rooney.
Posted on September 20, 2013 1:44 pm by Scott Rosasco
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
This low slung, circa 1958 residence, an architects personally designed home, has only had two owners in over 50 years. With 3300 sq.ft and comfortably ensconced in the charming and established Dobbs Ferry neighborhood of Hilltop Park, it is adjacent to the 76 acre Juhring Estate Nature Preserve. Offering the unique benefits of both the highly regarded Ardsley school district, as well as an easy drive to the Dobbs Ferry train station. Tastefully renovated this past year and redesigned for today’s lifestyles it shows a rare and incredible attention to detail. Custom, lacquered kitchen cabinets, quartz counter tops, bamboo floors and exotic woods are a mere sample of the fine finishes brought to this wonderful home. Offering 3 Bedrooms, two of which have new, full ensuite baths, a full width living room with stone fireplace wall and a full width dining room, both offering floor to ceiling glass doors to let the outdoors in. There is also a new custom kitchen and powder room completing the first level. The lower level offers a third bedroom, new hall bath and family room with an easy walk out thru oversized sliding glass doors to the spacious backyard as well as a 1.5 car garage. Comfortable entertaining takes place on the new mahogany deck overlooking views of the bucolic woodlands below, with nautically inspired stainless steel cable railings, all exuding a sense of quiet and peace.
Hilltop Park is a unique enclave of comfortable residences that rarely come on the market. Streets quiet enough for children to play on, still evenings, friendly neighbors and an abundant sense of nature and privacy make a home in this neighborhood a truly special place to live.
Become one of the privileged few. Offered at only $789,000, this is a rare opportunity. Call me for a private tour at 914-960-3837.
Posted on September 12, 2013 6:10 am by Scott Rosasco
In the now all too typical “development vs. quality of life” conversation, it appears that the incredible Hudson River views from the once thriving Rudy’s Beau Rivage property, a local landmark at the southern gateway to Dobbs Ferry, are in jeopardy of being lost to a developers vision, for a wall of condominium buildings at the street, approximately 141′ long by 35′ high, on the now vacant site. Frighteningly enough, the village of Dobbs Ferry may be prepared to ignore its own new rules, some 10 years in the making, prohibiting this type of development, which robs the entire village of existing views, for one developers benefit. Currently, under village law, a thorough View Analysis must take place by village advisory boards before permitting this project to go forward. This View Analysis must seek to mitigate to the fullest extent possible the adverse effects of construction on existing views. The item is on the agenda, as a public hearing, for the Thursday, September 12 Planning Board meeting. The developers response so far has been to propose mitigating the loss of the views from his own property, by opening up views from the neighboring Cabrini Nursing Home property to the south. While this is all well and good for the Cabrini property and is probably something that should be done anyway, it fails to address the village code requirement for the applicant to mitigate his own property. Unfortunately, this has become the all too typical way for developers in Dobbs Ferry to shirk their own responsibilities under village law, with tacit support from the village governance.
Existing public Hudson River views are called out as important to Dobbs Ferry, in the recently enacted village code: “Views to the Hudson River, from both public and private property, are particularly important and demand consideration in the review of development applications. The purpose of these standards are to preserve the scenic quality of these resources and thereby promote a high quality of life, preserve property values, and promote sustainable economic development by limiting development that would reduce their visual integrity and to ensure that development does not block observation of a scenic view from delineated public viewing places.”
As well, section 300-46 of Dobbs Ferry Code states: “When development occurs on or in the vicinity of a well-recognized landmark or outstanding view it can have a dramatic negative effect upon the general character of the community. As part of the Vision Plan process, the Village has identified significant scenic views and view corridors from selected viewing places throughout the community. Views to the Hudson River, from both public and private property, are particularly important and demand consideration in the review of development applications. The purpose of these standards are to preserve the scenic quality of these resources and thereby promote a high quality of life, preserve property values, and promote sustainable economic development by limiting development that would reduce their visual integrity and to ensure that development does not block observation of a scenic view from delineated public viewing places.”
It will certainly be interesting to see if the Dobbs Ferry Planning Board, which is supposed to have the first look at these applications and which appears to wield the most power and influence over development, will embrace its new powers to thoroughly address this issue. Developers should be held fully accountable to village law, as opposed to the more typical rubber stamp reputation Dobbs Ferry has gotten over the past few years, towards development in the village, which comes at the expense of the quality of life of its residents.
New to the market, this Rivertowns residence offers great bones at a great price. Situated on a quiet residential street the solid 4 bedroom center hall colonial, with 2200 sq.ft. of living space is a wonderful opportunity.
Featuring the open floor plan prefered by todays lifestyles, it boasts a spacious living room, dining room, eat-in-kitchen and powder room on the first floor. A master bedroom suite on the second level runs the full width of the house and features a huge walk-in-closet and a full bath. There are 3 more family bedrooms and a full hall bath on this floor. The lower level offers a large family room with another full bath, laundry and a door out to the private patio. Gleaming hardwood floors and a 1 car garage complete the picture. Currently the least expensive 4 bedroom colonial for sale in the Rivertowns.
Call me at 914-960-3837 for a private showing or EMAIL ME
Posted on February 12, 2013 7:00 am by Scott Rosasco
In what appears to be a now annual event, the Irvington Penguin Plunge is back for the second year in a row. It is set to start off at 11:30 AM on Saturday March 2, 2013 in Matthiessen Park. One might think that after last years plunge into the frigid Hudson River people may have had second thoughts, but no such luck. It appears to be just as popular an event. This year may be slightly different though in that, unlike 2012 which was a comparatively warm winter, we have actually had some ice on the Hudson River already. One would surmise therefore that the water will be even colder, however marginally, than the Irvington Penguin Plunge of 2012. Time will tell, but hopefully swimmers will not have to climb over shore ice to get into the water.
Remember, this is a fundraising event so the more sponsors you get for your “Plunge”, the more money will be generated for the Village of Irvington programs. Last years Irvington Penguin Plunge raised $76,000.
For a look at last years event, click on the link and associated video below. If that still doesn’t scare you off, a link to the entrance application is also enclosed. See you on March 2 at 11:30 AM. https://dobbsferry-rivertowns.com/2012/02/08/1st-irvington-ny-penguin-plunge-set-for-march-3-2012/
How To Register For The 2013 Irvington Penguin Plunge:
Posted on January 23, 2013 7:00 am by Scott Rosasco
FROM HOUZZ.COM: “White 3-by-6-inch tiles, commonly known as subway tiles, are a staple of kitchen and bathroom design. It’s no surprise that homeowners and designers both love this classic tile: It’s affordable and uncontroversial — and best of all, it’s usually in stock.
White subway tile is ever popular, but a style that has been gaining in popularity in recent years is to pair white subway tile with dark gray grout in a running-brick pattern. The resulting look defines the outlines of each tile, adding depth and interest to a space. The wider set the tiles are, the more pronounced the outline effect becomes and the bolder the look.
Gray grout is also a wise choice because it is easy to maintain, unlike white grout, which can easily yellow or stain. Here are 10 interiors with white subway tiles installed with gray grout. From kitchens to bathrooms to laundry rooms, it’s a versatile look that would fit right into many homes.”
Read the full article and view the slideshow at: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1613366?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=u71&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery8
Posted on January 3, 2013 10:24 am by Scott Rosasco
From CNNMoney “The recovery in the housing market continues to pick up steam, as home prices posted the biggest percentage gain in more than two years in the latest reading of the closely followed S&P/Case-Shiller index.
The index showed prices up 4.3% in October compared to a year earlier. That’s the best improvement since May 2010. But that earlier increase was due to a temporary spike caused by a homebuyers’ tax credit of up to $8,000 on homes purchased in late 2009 and early 2010.”
Read the full article at: http://money.cnn.com/2012/12/26/real_estate/home-prices/index.html?source=linkedin&buffer_share=95a93
Posted on November 29, 2012 7:00 am by Scott Rosasco
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
In-Town Living At Its Best! Like a small house, this 1350 sq.ft. Co-Op is ideally situated a mere two blocks from the Metro North commuter train station, two blocks from a major grocery store and one block from village restaurants, shops and boutiques. Completely renovated for sale. With the charming river town village of Dobbs Ferry as it’s backdrop, this wonderful residence offers 3 bedrooms, 2 new baths, a spacious living and dining room and a stunning new kitchen. Only the finest finishes were used in this unit with granite, stainless and polished hardwood floors thru-out. What makes it special and unique though, is the separate entrance at grade with no steps required between your car and front door. There is also a rare, in-unit laundry. This is a great opportunity for no-step living or to get into the famed Dobbs Ferry school system at an almost unheard of price of $349,000. Arrange for your private showing by calling 914-960-3837.
See the full listing at: http://www.randrealty.com/agent/652/Scott-Rosasco/NY/Property/1392482/150-Draper-Ln-G1n-Dobbs-Ferry-NY-10522/
Posted on November 15, 2012 2:07 pm by Scott Rosasco
Rivertowns Square Proposal
The oft postponed Rivertowns Square public hearing, regarding the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), prepared by the applicant and accepted as complete by the Dobbs Ferry Board of Trustees, will be held tonight at 6:30 PM at the Embassy Center, 60 Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry. This will be the first opportunity for members of the public to comment on the final document and air their concerns. Although there may be additional meetings scheduled after this and written comments will also be accepted, it’s possible this may be the only opportunity to comment on the FEIS, before this project proceeds further in the development process.
An abbreviated version of the public notice, from the Dobbs Ferry village website, is as follows:
Description of Action:
Application by Saber Dobbs Ferry LLC and Lincoln Dobbs Ferry LLC, as co-developers, for site plan approval of a proposed mixed-use redevelopment of the former AKZO Nobel Chemical, Inc. property. In response to comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (“DEIS”), the applicant has modified the project to now include: (i) approximately 202 residential units (including affordable units); (ii) an approximately 18,000 square foot supermarket; (iii) approximately 62,000 square feet of retail/restaurant space; (iv) an approximately 123 room hotel; and (v) a 33,600 square foot hotel, together with approximately 1228 parking spaces to serve all uses.
Location of Action:
The subject property is located on Stanley Avenue, Danforth Avenue, Livingstone Avenue, Ogden Avenue and Lawrence Street, Dobbs ferry, New York.
A copy of the FEIS is located on the Village of Dobbs Ferry Website and is available at Village Hall, 112 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry, New York 10522.
Posted on September 25, 2012 7:20 am by Scott Rosasco
The 2012 Hudson Valley Events Guide for Fall is hot off the presses here at Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty in Dobbs Ferry. With information on over 200 events in the Hudson Valley it seems there is something to do for everyone this season.
In particular don’t miss the Dobbs Ferry Festa on September 29th and stop by our office at 108 Main Street. We will be having a silent auction for cancer research, crafts for kids and a whole host of other activities.
Also, in the near future, is the always well attended Dobbs Ferry Halloween Parade. Last years Halloween Parade featured a pet element which seemed to be a success. Look for an update on this in October.
The full Hudson Valley Events Guide can be found here: http://www.randcenter.com/downloads/2012_fall_events_guide.pdf
Posted on September 11, 2012 6:48 am by Scott Rosasco
Before
After
Home staging is still a fairly new concept to many homeowners, especially those who have not sold real estate in the last 5 years or so. At this point it goes way beyond de-personalizing and de-cluttering your home An important part of preparing to list your home for sale, aside from listing it for the right price with the right agent, is making sure it puts its best foot forward, to appeal to as many buyers as possible. First impressions are lasting impressions and the fantastic home you may have gotten used to living in, for all your own fantastic reasons, may actually turn off many buyers for those exact same reasons. Your goal is to turn on as many possible buyers to the benefits of living in your home in order to distinguish it from the rest and get the highest price in the shortest time frame. Especially in a market where inventory levels are high, a typical buyer may be looking at 30 or more homes before buying one. How does your home compare and stand out (in a good way) to those other 29? A recent article in Business Insider, called Guerilla Staging offered 7 tips for home staging your home for success. http://www.businessinsider.com/guerilla-staging-7-hard-core-tactics-for-sellers-2012-9
Posted on August 28, 2012 7:00 am by Scott Rosasco
From a recent article in houzz.com:
“One of the most powerful tools you have when marketing your home for sale is amazing listing photography. No matter how fabulous your home is, it won’t sell if the listing photos don’t do their job. Your photos should be light, bright and welcoming so that potential buyers jump in and schedule a showing. Here are some simple ways to get the most out of these incredibly important home photos.
In the listing, include only photos of your most attractive rooms. Include the description and dimensions of the other rooms in the home, but you aren’t doing yourself any favors by including bad photos or poorly staged rooms. Lure potential buyers in with lovely spaces; don’t show them anything that might keep them from scheduling a showing[……]” Read the full article at: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/3773781/list?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=u154&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery22
Although sewage treatment is not a topic everyone wants to think about, I was recently involved in a residential sale in which the home had a septic system that was in failure, discovered only during the home inspection process, prior to contract signing. An impartial septic inspection, as opposed to one from a septic contractor (who is also looking for work), is an absolute requirement for anyone buying a house with these types of systems.
On-site septic systems in the Rivertowns are rarer than one might expect, especially for an area that was once considered semi-rural, but they do exist and are more common as one moves farther north in the county. A septic system will go into failure if the tank is not pumped routinely over time and the fields become saturated as a result. Ponding of water near the system is not a good sign. In the case of this particular home, the ground was perpetually and noticeably wet. The owner should have recognized the signs. The replacement costs for a septic system hover in the $30,000 range and require significant soil replacement and property disruption, usually of your now perfect lawn, as well as removal of any nearby trees and shrubs. It is required however if there is no easy street access to a newer, sanitary sewer line. This can all be avoided with a routine pump out of the system every few years, with a typical cost of only $400.
Because of the possibly expensive repair required due to the lack of what was easy maintenance, my clients, who really liked the house otherwise, were able to negotiate a substantial price reduction to reflect the future work required. The property owners were essentially held hostage to the overly exorbitant estimates by some of the contractors.
A few points of interest, for those still reading this post, from the company that performed the initial septic inspection: http://advseptic.com/oursepticinspection.html
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: Worried about trying to sell your home in this buyer’s market? Adopting some simple staging tips from the pros can help your home sell faster
The effort may be well worth your time, according to the Real Estate Staging Association. The group studied 174 homes that had been on the market for an average of 156 days, before homeowners hired a professional home stager. After staging, they sold an average of 42 days after re-listing.
But there’s not always a need to call in a professional for this job. “Keep that money for yourself,” says Thomas Rouse, who was a lead design producer at “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and has worked on other home television programs. As long as you have a friend with a strong eye to give you a second opinion, staging a home for sale is often something owners can handle on their own, he says[……..]
Read the full Wall Street Journal article, by Amy Hoak, with 10 tips for successful home staging at: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304840904577422084009663536.html
There are currently 72 properties available for sale in the Rivertown village of Dobbs Ferry. They run the gamut in price from a $169,999 Co-Op in Beacon Hill Estates, to a $3,595,000 house in Ardsley Park.
With current interest rates hovering, at a 3.9% fixed rate and the now well established opinion that there will never be a better time to buy real estate, both in terms of low prices and low interest rates, the opportunities abound for making an investment in Dobbs Ferry that will no doubt increase in value over time.
See the full list at: http://www.randrealty.com/agent/652/Scott-Rosasco/Search/2709818/Dobbs-Ferry/
Seemingly without much fanfare or public notice, Dobbs Ferry recently changed its building code again, to require all property transfers to obtain an updated Certificate of Occupancy from the village. Irregardless of whether you own property that was built in 1912 or 2012; house, condo or co-op, you will be required to request the building department to inspect your property prior to any sale, to get what will now be called a CCO (Continuing Certificate of Occupancy). The fee will be $150. Currently, it will be good for 90 days after it is issued. Alternatively, you can wait up to 180 days after a successful inspection to get the CCO issued, at which time the 90 day clock starts. After that, a reinspection may be required for another $75 – $150.
This would appear to be a great new benefit for buyers of properties in Dobbs Ferry, to ascertain that the homes they are buying do in fact pass building department standards with respect to fire, safety and building codes.
On the seller side of the equation however, the idea that you would need a new CO for a home that already has an existing, building department issued CO, even if you’ve made no changes to the property, makes this sound less and less like a good thing for buyers and more and more like a new village transfer tax for sellers, once the costs of all the other possible fees are factored in. Especially if you need to bring a home up to conformity with current fire and safety standards as well as village records, which can often times be inaccurate.
There can be no doubt that this has the potential to open a whole Pandora’s box of issues for sellers of property in Dobbs Ferry. As a result, for any homeowner, this inspection needs to be addressed before a property is listed for sale.
For an unsuspecting seller, who perhaps has been living in a home for any number of years, to find out well after a deal with a buyer has been consummated, that their home does not match building department records or current fire and safety rules, even though it has an existing Certificate of Occupancy, this new change may be an abrupt awakening. That homeowner may need to hire an architect or plumber or electrician, with all the associated village permitting fees and possibly be required to bring certain updates before the various statutory boards in the village, taking valuable and expensive time away from a potential real estate sale. It remains to be seen how this new law will work out over time.
A PDF of the new law can be found here, from the Dobbs Ferry website: https://dobbsferry-rivertowns.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/home.pdf
Built in 1850 as a residence and later converted to a variety of restaurant uses; Villa Arturo, later Rudy’s Beau Rivage and now the failed Windows on the Hudson, 19 Livingston Avenue represented a charming and iconic landmark, at the southern gateway to the village of Dobbs Ferry downtown for over 160 years. Last week it was unceremoniously torn down. A combination of excessively grandiose intentions by a new owner, coupled with a diminished economy, limited financing opportunities and a lack of village oversight during the reconstruction phase turned what could have been a great renovation, into a pile of rubble.
It is a sad state of affairs in Dobbs Ferry when what started as a structurally sound building of this vintage, was essentially left to rot, exposed to the elements, in broad daylight on a main road, until such time as there was no other choice but to demolish it. This was the second such building of a similar age and character to be demolished on Livingston Avenue in the past several years. One can only imagine, given the value of the land, which recently sold for $1,145,000, what it’s to be replaced with. Hopefully, it’s not the maximum number of residential units one can possibly fit on the property, sheathed in vinyl siding, as the welcome mat to the village downtown district.
The newly passed Dobbs Ferry zoning code allows the Board of Trustees to request a determination, or catalog, of historically significant buildings and districts in the village of Dobbs Ferry. As of yet, this request has not been made. The demise of these buildings should serve as a wake up call. Perhaps it is time the village exercised the full freedom and powers that the new zoning code allows, in the hopes of either preventing, slowing down or at least adequately regulating and overseeing, with more stringent controls, what goes on during the reconstruction of buildings of this type. Dobbs Ferry, like most other river villages, has an ever dwindling supply of these old buildings, now minus one more. Hopefully, something has been learned here and this can be avoided in the future.
Ever since flat screen TVs became light enough to mount on the wall, everyone seems intent on placing them high above their fireplace mantles. Opinions vary on whether this contributes anything positive to the overall look of the room.There is something to be said, particularly in a very traditional looking decor arrangement, for a very modern TV, looking quite out of place above the fireplace. Additionally, mixing tech with fire isn’t always the greatest idea in the world from a practical standpoint. However if you are thinking about this placement plan, consider these tips from a few pros who have seen it all. http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/tv-above-the-fireplace-4-pro-tips-before-proceeding-164424
Posted on March 24, 2012 12:01 am by Scott Rosasco
From Laurence Yun, Chief Economist at Realtor.com: “Mortgage rates will be starting to rise from this week on. From the 3.9 to 4.0 percent average rate in the past five months on a 30-year fixed mortgage, the new rates will soon be in the range of 4.3 to 4.6 percent. Usually the initial phase of rising rates can quicken the decision to sign on the dotted line as consumers do not want to face even higher mortgage rates later on. However, a prolonged increase will shrink the pool of eligible home buyers.
Here are some raw statistics to contend with. Let’s say a person is committed to paying at most $1,000 per month in principal and interest to be comfortably within this person’s budget. A mortgage calculator will spit out that at a 3.9 percent rate (last week’s rate), this homebuyer will be able to take out $212,000 in mortgage amount. At 4.5 percent (near future rate), the figure drops to $198,000, or the equivalent to a drop of 7 percent in purchasing power. The homebuyer therefore has to shoot for lower price points.
Another way to view the impact of rising rates is to compute the income required to get the $212,000 in mortgage funds as in the above example. At 3.9 percent, the income would have to be $4,000 per month, assuming that this particular person only feels comfortable with a mortgage payment taking up 25 percent of his or her income. At 4.5 percent, the mortgage payment to buy that same home would be $1,074 per month and the corresponding monthly income requirement would be $4,296. Now, how many people have a monthly income between $4,000 and $4,296 or on an annual basis between $48,000 and $51,552? According to the Census income distribution table, 2.9 percent of the population is between these two incomes. This income gap also represents how many people would have qualified to buy this particular example home before and after the mortgage rate change[….]”
Read the entire post at: http://economistsoutlook.blogs.realtor.org/2012/03/16/the-impact-of-rising-mortgage-rates/
If you are planning to sell, kitchen improvements have one of the highest returns on your investment in terms of getting a good price for your home.
Uncovering the Good:
When you start any redesign – think about what is good in the space and what is not. Are the wood floors in bad shape and in need of a few layers of room brightening porch paint? Are the windows covered in dated window treatments that block out natural light? Are the countertops nice but simply covered with too much stuff? Be honest with yourself about the space.
Work With What You Have:
Once you know what works well in the space then you can work from there and take the focus away from what is not working by literally removing it or making it less of a focus.
One easy fix is changing the wall color. By changing these walls from a dark green to a sunny yellow, the kitchen now has a more uplifting feel.
If the cabinets were dark wood or very dated, they could be primed and painted white. Fortunately, in this case they were already white and in good shape. Drawer pulls and knob hardware was changed to give an instant new look, which is something you can do yourself.
Lighting is a big thing. The dated fixture over the sink was changed to a schoolhouse pendant light bought on sale. Then, over the island, a halogen spot track unit worked well into the style of the space and is used to add warmth to the overall space. Lighting truly makes good design come to life.
When you do a cosmetic makeover, you don’t have to rip everything out and start over – you make what you have better. In this kitchen, the stainless steel sink was good, but to give it a more updated look the faucet was changed out with a new one.
If your kitchen has beat-up upper cabinets, you could remove them and install open shelving that gets painted white and displays only your everyday dinnerware and glassware. Something as simple as that can truly give a space or wall a facelift.The appliances in this kitchen were new, so that saved money. If you need to buy new ones for your space this is where it is wise to invest your money. Yes, stainless is still trendy, but white is always classic and works great with various styles and is always a good selling point on a home. Fortunately, you can now get the high-end look without the big price tag. Shop around and compare prices.
Styling:
The last visual change in this room is the styling. For example, a tray that holds cooking spices and oils by the stove, a basket of fruit, simple canisters, a few matching props, a new cutting board and some flowers. You can set a stage for your everyday living that says “welcome home” to your family, friends and potential buyers. The kitchen will always remain the heart of the home no matter how much or how little money you spend to make it better. Be creative with what you have.
Posted on February 23, 2012 7:38 am by Scott Rosasco
Mortgage rates are still at historic lows, but they have started to creep up in the last few months. With most industry observers predicting higher rates in the next year, this might be one of your last chances to refinance your high interest rate loan and save thousands every year. Rand Mortage is also offering a special refinance offer. Call or email dean.curtis@randmortgage.com for more information and to save $1,000 in costs associated with a refinance. The offer code is QMR4-12. The offer expires 4/30/12 at 5 PM. https://secure.web-loans.com/loancenter-apply-default.aspx?bem=&t=2%2f17%2f2012+12%3a12%3a34+PM
Posted on February 11, 2012 4:10 pm by Scott Rosasco
The entryway is a great candidate for a new year spruce up. As the first space to be seen when walking into a house, the entryway sets a tone for the rest of the house. Unfortunately, it’s a place where shoes, clothes, packages, and mail tend to build up. However, according to Jami Nato, some planning, a weekend’s worth of time and about $85 can fix all of that.
This recently plain entryway was revamped into something quite spectacular. Using a bunch of 1×6 and 1×3 boards and some well-placed hooks, this built-in panel effect was created. Backpacks, hats, scarves and jackets now all will have a home. One great element is the picture ledge on top. It’s a great place to place children’s artwork.
Read the Full Article With Complete Photo Instructions At: http://thenatos.blogspot.com/2012/01/entry-way-re-do-yes.html
Posted on February 1, 2012 3:06 pm by Scott Rosasco
When Mary Fagan left the building, housing her longstanding upholstery business, W.T. Barnes Upholstery, at 32 Cedar Street in Dobbs Ferry on Tuesday, it was for the last time in, unbelievably enough, 61 years. In what is probably one of the oldest, individually run businesses in Dobbs Ferry, W.T. Barnes was shut down and the building’s longtime owner, who gave her age as 80, is finally retiring.
Originally built in 1915, 32 Cedar Street first served as Dobbs Ferry’s telephone operating station and the original plans show an Operating Room, an Apparatus Room and a Locker Room for employees. When the Dobbs Ferry telephone system was modernized, the building was converted to a commercial use; the present upholstery business, originally called Wilmer T. Barnes Upholstery.
Mary began working at that business as a teenager in 1950 and enjoyed it so much that later, she and her husband Donald aquired both the building and the business. They have run it ever since. After coming to work 5 – 6 days a week, thru rain, sleet and snow for over 60 years, it appears that it is now finally time for a rest.
The new owner, an architect, expects to create a live/work/retail space on the 3 full floors, in the loft-like building with 10′ ceilings thru-out, which has property stretching all the way back to Wickers Creek.
It is truly the end of an era on Cedar Street in Dobbs Ferry.
Also see: http://www.randrealty.com/agent/652/Scott-Rosasco/NY/Property/979787/32-Cedar-St-Dobbs-Ferry-NY-10522/
Posted on January 27, 2012 2:31 pm by Scott Rosasco
I grew up in an idyllic spot, directly adjacent to the 76 acre Dobbs Ferry Juhring Estate Nature Preserve, yet never saw much of any interesting wildlife. That all changed about 15 years ago. As more development in Dobbs Ferry occurred, particularly near areas of the Juhring Estate which had seen little previous human contact, more and more of the interesting, yet shy, wildlife population was pushed out to the borders of the Dobbs Ferry owned property. Now, I have a herd of deer sleeping on my front lawn at night. Wild turkeys brazenly walk down my driveway on Thanksgiving. A brown fox eats my neighbors garbage. Coyotes as well have been spotted in Dobbs Ferry and the Rivertowns. One report had a large one walking across Broadway, at the Hastings-on-Hudson border, recently.
The NY DEC put out an interesting bulletin that is required reading for anyone concerned about coyotes. In most cases it appears they are more afraid of us than we should be of them. Not always though. With winter upon us and the prospects for food in the “wild” diminished, the following excerpt might be something to take note of: “Owners of large and medium sized dogs have little to worry about. Coyotes, with an average weight of 35 lbs., know they are overmatched by large dogs and will yield part of their territory (your yard) to the dog. A confrontation may occur between a mid sized dog and a coyote. Such confrontations, however, usually do not involve physical contact between the two animals. The dog and coyote usually come to an understanding on whose territory is whose.
Owners of small dogs have cause for concern. The outcome of a confrontation between a small dog and a coyote will depend a lot upon the behavior of the dog. A coyote knows it is physically superior to a small dog and expects the dog to be submissive. Trouble occurs when a small dog does not submit to a coyote. The coyote will discipline the dog to correct its inappropriate behavior. This discipline will continue until the dog submits or is eventually killed.
Very small dogs, e.g., small poodles, are viewed by coyotes as easy prey and are at risk to be killed year round.” Read The Full Article at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6971.html
Posted on January 18, 2012 6:00 am by Scott Rosasco
Proposed Rivertowns Square, Dobbs Ferry NY
Among the myriad concerns brought to the table at the Monday, January 9 public hearing on the Dobbs Ferry Rivertowns Square proposal, two inter-related issues were raised by residents.
While the developers contend that they have resolved the expected traffic concerns with a variety of roadway improvements, including a proposed traffic light at Ogden Avenue and Ashford Avenue, they seem unimpressed by Dobbs Ferry residents statements that Ogden Avenue, expected to be an access road, is already substandard to begin with and any new influx of traffic will make an already bad situation all the more untenable. Further, this new light would only be installed, after the construction of the project is complete and the traffic situation is re-monitored. This leads one to believe that a deteriorated traffic situation might exist for quite some time before being alleviated, if at all.
A related and more important concern was that of property values, raised by one resident of Ogden Avenue who noted that the DEIS states that property values would actually go up, after the construction of this project. A recently published interview with the developer stated that local Realtors had been consulted in this conclusion, yet the developer was uncertain as to how many. It is highly unlikely however, that any experienced Realtor would suggest that an increase in the amount of traffic on the road facing a residence, of which there is no argument from any party is anything but the expected outcome of this project, would cause a corresponding increase in that homes property values. In fact, just the reverse is true. Clearly, houses on heavily traveled roads are more difficult to sell and for less money than their identical counterparts in quieter areas of Dobbs Ferry, for all the obvious reasons.
These kinds of questions can be best and more thoroughly answered by independent, licensed real estate appraisers, as opposed to Realtors, who generally are not prone to making subjective assumptions based on the party that is paying them and whose testimony, accordingly, is accepted in court. Hopefully, both the village and the FEIS will engage independent, licensed real estate appraisers to verify that property values will, at a minimum, not go down for neighbors with respect to this proposal. Several of the statutory Dobbs Ferry boards charged with looking at this proposal cannot, by village code, approve a project which will cause a reduction in property values to neighbors. This is an important issue that it would be best to attempt to resolve now, thru the FEIS, before it gets to a more subjective and contentious level.
Also see: https://dobbsferry-rivertowns.com/2011/08/06/rivertown-square-development-review-moving-along/
Posted on January 9, 2012 1:49 pm by Scott Rosasco
APARTMENT THERAPY. It’s the first full weekend after all the holiday hubbub — a perfect time to settle down and get the apartment whipped into shape for the coming year. We’ve collected 20 useful posts, from room to room, to instruct and inspire. Delve into 2012 clutter-free and ready to go!
Read The Full Article at: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/20-weekend-projects-for-every-164043
Posted on December 22, 2011 6:09 pm by Scott Rosasco
Dobbs Ferry Walgreens
At Tuesday nights Architectural and Historic Review Board meeting, the latest iteration of the new Walgreens building on Ashford Avenue was approved by a 4 – 1 vote. Occupying the spot of the former Brothers Market, G & L Deli and Off Broadway Restaurant, this caps a number of AHRB meetings where the scale of the building was changed from one story to two story to match the required village code for the Gateway Zone and the overall character of the building was substantially modified. What started out as more of a signature Walgreens, big box building, that one might see in the vicinity of the Central Avenue shopping corridor, was modified by the developers architects, in response to a variety of AHRB concerns, to graciously reflect both what is currently there now and also to incorporate what the AHRB expects to be a precedent for inclusion in other future Gateway buildings.
The overall look is meant to resemble several individual, articulated storefronts with fabric awnings and signage, much in the way storefronts in buildings on Cedar Street and Main Street are now articulated. In this case however it just so happens that the entire first floor is to be occupied by a single tenant. This matches the expectations of the recently adopted Dobbs Ferry Vision Plan. Materials consistent with the dominant buildings of the Gateway neighborhood have also been incorporated into the design, most notably a dark, somewhat more traditional looking brick. A substantial re-landscaping plan is also to be implemented for the parking lot areas, adjacent to the residential neighborhood.
While opinions may vary with respect to the benefits of the eventual tenant, it is clear that this new building has the potential to be a great new neighbor to the other buildings in the Gateway, both present and future and also to the existing character of the village of Dobbs Ferry as a whole.
Also see: https://dobbsferry-rivertowns.com/2011/10/10/dobbs-ferry-walgreens-site-plan-approved/
Posted on December 16, 2011 6:41 am by Scott Rosasco
NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — Mortgage rates sunk to record lows again this week. The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 3.94%, matching the all-time low hit in early October, according to Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage rate survey. Meanwhile, 15-year fixed-rate loans hit a new record low of 3.21%, surpassing the record set on October 6. Five-year adjustable rate mortgages also plumbed new depths, hitting 2.86% for the week. Low-interest mortgages will be available at least through mid-2012, according to Freddie Mac’s chief economist, Frank Nothaft.
The low rates can translate into big savings for home buyers. Five years ago, a home buyer would have been lucky to land a 5% rate on a 15-year loan. On a $200,000 mortgage, that would have meant the borrower would have paid $1,582 a month. Should a borrower land a 3.2% rate on a $200,000 loan now, the monthly mortgage payment would come to $1,400 — a savings of $182 a month.
Read more at: http://money.cnn.com/2011/12/15/real_estate/mortgage_rates/index.htm
Posted on December 6, 2011 4:42 pm by Scott Rosasco
Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty is delighted to present its annual Winter Events Guide, a listing of almost 100 local community events throughout the Hudson Valley. The events are organized by region, and then by date, and we have also listed ongoing events in a separate section to make it easier to find great ways to celebrate the season. For updated lists of events, go to http://www.randrealty.com and look for our weekly events guide. Have a great holiday season! For the full PDF see: http://www.randcenter.com/downloads/2011_winter_events_guide.pdf
Posted on November 30, 2011 11:42 am by Scott Rosasco
From Houzz.com: Sometimes it’s hard to get inspiration for a potentially uninteresting 5′ x 8′ bathroom space, and there are good reasons for it. Once you install the sink basin, toilet and bathtub there is not much room for accessories, and most homeowners and builders tend to choose neutral tones and colors for finishes because they are thinking of the resale value. The results are bathrooms we don’t want to spend much time in besides doing our daily routines. Here are some designs to spark ideas for your next bathroom.
Read the full article at: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/890524?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery13&w=518816
Posted on November 23, 2011 1:39 pm by Scott Rosasco
The DEIS (Draft Environmental Impact Statement) for Rivertowns Square, located in the vicinity of Ogden Avenue and the Saw Mill River Parkway has been released by the village of Dobbs Ferry, to start the public review process.
At last nights Board of Trustees meeting it was reiterated several times that this is just the start of the review process by the public and that the first public meeting must be held no later than 60 days from today’s release. In fact, there is already a public hearing on Rivertowns Square scheduled for December 19 starting at 6:30 PM in village hall. However this is an open-ended process. The Board of Trustees has the option to extend this public hearing process as many times as is necessary to be sure all questions are answered to the satisfaction of the Board and the public. Further, the developer, as a matter of law, is required to answer every question and comment made by the public with respect to the DEIS.
This is an exhaustive document (well over 500 pages in itself with an almost 2000 page appendix) that represents the proposed project from the perspective of the developer and how they plan to mitigate any concerns associated with it. This document does not represent the perspective of the village board or residents. Now is the time for any comments, questions or concerns that the pubic has, to be made during the public hearing process and read into the record for a response by the developer.
The PDF documents are available here: www.dobbsferry.com
CD’s can also be burned by the village upon request and with some notice for a fee of $5.00 each.
Posted on November 18, 2011 11:55 am by Scott Rosasco
Online real estate valuation services offered by companies such as Zillow.com, Homes.com and Realtor.com have become ubiquitous in the past several years. They automatically collate information on all listed and sold real estate, available from a variety of sources and using advanced algorithms compile that information into data used to estimate the value for your home. The only problem is: they are often wrong. When not outright wrong, they are wildly inaccurate. There is no way to value property purely based on numbers unless all properties are exactly identical in every way. Few properties, even in the most homogenous of neighborhoods are. These valuations don’t take into account many of the variables that your local real estate broker or appraiser considers when accurately valuing a house. Some of the variables include location, condition, taxes, house style etc.
Personally, I have had clients using Zillows “Zestimate” as a baseline for deciding what offers to put in on houses, when the baseline was off by as much as $100,000 from the actual values. This results in a very frustrating experience for the buyer, the seller and of course the Realtor. These actual clients had to look at over 60 homes to finally convince themselves that the local Rivertowns neighborhoods they were looking in and the valuable advice their Realtor was giving them was not reflected by Zillow.com. While they did eventually purchase a home, they lost several well priced homes in the meantime, that they really wanted and could afford, because they could not disassociate themselves from the gospel advice of online valuation.
A recent article in Smart Money Magazine confirms that these estimates “seldom hit the bulls eye” being off by 20, 30 or even 50 percent. Using a service which can be off by as much as 50% is almost worse than using no service at all, especially when valuing one of life’s most expensive investments. In one legendary instance in Brooklyn, the Zillow Zestimate for a brownstone was $31 million. The property is currently listed for $5 million. Sounds like a good deal. Remarkably though it is still unsold.
More information at: http://www.smartmoney.com/spend/real-estate/the-fuzzy-math-of-home-values-1320260595148/?mg=com-sec-sm
Posted on November 10, 2011 11:56 am by Scott Rosasco
A pizza truck from Eddie's Pizza, New Hyde Park NY
There is currently a proposal before the Dobbs Ferry Board of Trustees regarding a Peddlers Permit for the operation of a “pizza truck” from The Cookery Restaurant in the village. At Tuesday nights BOT meeting, concerns were raised by two village pizzeria owners as to whether the village really needed another pizzeria to compete with the existing businesses and whether, if it did, a mobile truck parked at the Farmers Market, across the street from existing pizzerias, seemingly capitalizing on their location, at little or no comparable cost to the truck owner, was really the way to go. Other options included parking the truck at the waterfront.
The larger question is whether, in these tough economic times, it makes sense for the village of Dobbs Ferry to be looking for ways to make it even more difficult for existing village businesses to survive and flourish. Given that the village already has three pizzerias within one block who either pay high rents, high taxes, or both, the addition of a mobile pizza truck would seem to be an affront to those businesses.
There can be no doubt that the Farmers Market already competes with other brick and mortar village businesses in the selling of produce and other foods. Village residents have recently lamented the loss of Brothers Market, a local produce purveyor which left because it couldn’t afford to pay its rent. Providing alternative places to purchase the same products (pizza, produce, wine, baked goods etc.), from outside vendors, who don’t have the same level of investment in the village downtown, would seem to be an odd choice in this economy.
Posted on October 28, 2011 2:35 pm by Scott Rosasco
Around this time of year I always wonder if my house might be haunted. Perhaps it’s the upcoming Halloween celebration that has some of my more imaginative neighbors decorating their yards with all sorts of spooky surprises, just waiting to jump out at me, but more than likely it’s the change in seasons. As it gets colder, I hear all sorts of new noises in the house. As the wood contracts, in the suddenly cold temperatures, it creaks and it groans at odd hours. The winds pick up and there are new whistling sounds…..or could it be voices? Sometimes I wonder. And there are always footsteps running across the attic floor, late every night. I believe it’s a squirrel. I hope. There has been at least one well documented haunted house in the Lower Hudson Valley http://athomeinnyack.wordpress.com/2010/10/29/nyacks-legally-haunted-house/ There is no reason why there can’t be another. It does however raise all sorts of concerns as to whether you should publicly mention that you think your house is haunted. It’s probably not a beneficial feature. If you have any questions whatsoever, especially with October 31 just around the corner, the enclosed article from stylelist.com might be just the answer: http://www.stylelist.com/2011/10/27/theresa-caputo-long-island-medium_n_1035743.html
Posted on October 25, 2011 3:31 pm by Scott Rosasco
This year Dobbs Ferry is sponsoring a Pet Parade in conjunction with their annual Halloween Trick or Treat Parade on Main Street. The pet portion of the parade starts at the corner of Chestnut Street and Main Street at 5 PM. The Trick or Treat Parade starts at 4 PM. You can find an application for your pet here: http://downtowndobbs.wufoo.com/forms/2011-dobbs-furry-halloween-pet-parade-registration/
Posted on October 23, 2011 11:15 pm by Scott Rosasco
To almost no ones surprise, the top two out of five remodeling projects which tend to bring the greatest ROI (return on investment) remain your kitchen and your baths. It is almost a necessity in todays real estate market to have an updated kitchen and bath, hopefully in the last 10 years, but preferably in the last 5 years. While many homeowners attempt to add some individuality to these two areas, the safest approach is to try to remain as neutral as possible, especially if a resale of the property is contemplated in the near future. Left to their own devices, many buyers will overestimate the actual amount of money it will take to change your version of perfection to suit their own tastes immediately, especially if they add in the price of luxury appliances for their dream rooms and then subtract that amount from their purchase offer. The safer alternative is to have a neutral kitchen and bath that the prospective buyer may not actually be in love with, but can see themselves living with for a while, until they get around to their own remodel.
The top 5 projects are:
Posted on October 17, 2011 5:44 pm by Scott Rosasco
1 Summit Terrace, Dobbs Ferry $709,000
Ranging from a 1 bedroom condominium for $279,000 with 1102 sq.ft. and taxes of $12,807 to a 5 bedroom English Tudor Colonial for $2,860,000 with 6000 sq.ft. and taxes of $78,017, there is quite a breadth of opportunity, at virtually every price point with interest rates hovering around 4%. http://www.randrealty.com/agent/652/Scott-Rosasco/Search/1705246/Dobbs-Ferry/
Posted on October 3, 2011 12:25 pm by Scott Rosasco
The New York State School Tax Relief Program (STAR) provides homeowners with two types of partial exemptions from school property taxes. Almost all homeowners qualify for the first type, Basic STAR, savings if they apply for it. For 2011, income for Basic STAR purposes is based on the 2009 tax year, and is the combined income of:
all owners who reside at the property, and
any owner’s spouse who resides at the property.
Income is defined as federal “adjusted gross income” minus the “taxable amount” of total distributions from individual retirement accounts or individual retirement annuities (both of which are commonly known as “IRA’s”). For specific line references on your 2009 federal or state income tax returns, see page 2 of the STAR application.
If your assessor notifies you that you’re ineligible for the Basic STAR exemption:
If you agree that you’re ineligible, you don’t need to do anything. However, if your income drops below the limit in the future, you’ll need to re-apply for the exemption.
If your household income is below $500,000 and you believe that you’re eligible for the exemption, contact your assessor. The assessor may advise you to file a formal assessment grievance.
If you receive a notice from your assessor requesting more information:
Provide the assessor with your 2009 federal and state income tax returns.
If you don’t file a tax return, you’ll need to provide the assessor with all of your 2009 income statements (1099 statements, W-2 forms, etc.).
If you don’t receive a notice from your assessor
There’s no need to do anything – you’ll continue to receive the Basic STAR exemption.
For more information on the exact STAR Savings Amount, categorized by school district, see:
Uniquely situated and conveniently located 2 blocks from major highways, this single family home is in Dobbs Ferry’s new DT 
The entryway is a great candidate for a new year spruce up. As the first space to be seen when walking into a house, the entryway sets a tone for the rest of the house. Unfortunately, it’s a place where shoes, clothes, packages, and mail tend to build up. However, according to Jami Nato, some planning, a weekend’s worth of time and about $85 can fix all of that.
I grew up in an idyllic spot, directly adjacent to the 76 acre Dobbs Ferry Juhring Estate Nature Preserve, yet never saw much of any interesting wildlife. That all changed about 15 years ago. As more development in Dobbs Ferry occurred, particularly near areas of the Juhring Estate which had seen little previous human contact, more and more of the interesting, yet shy, wildlife population was pushed out to the borders of the Dobbs Ferry owned property. Now, I have a herd of deer sleeping on my front lawn at night. Wild turkeys brazenly walk down my driveway on Thanksgiving. A brown fox eats my neighbors garbage. Coyotes as well have been spotted in Dobbs Ferry and the Rivertowns. One report had a large one walking across Broadway, at the Hastings-on-Hudson border, recently.
Rivertowns Real Estate News 